The City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Economic Vitality and Diversity includes an objective to develop and redevelop commercial business park sites. City staff, in conjunction with the Utility Commission and Winston-Salem Business, Inc., has identified potential sites where future industrial or business parks could be located, including Union Cross Business Park, Brookwood Business Park, and Whitaker Park. The funds would be used for land purchase and site infrastructure development such as grading, water and sewer line construction, and road construction. Development of business parks has proven to be a successful tool for creating jobs and expanding the tax base.

Downtown Development/Merschel Plaza

One of the objectives under the City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Economic Vitality and Diversity focuses on the promotion of downtown revitalization. This project would provide funds for the development of new downtown office sites, research park sites, residential sites, and infrastructure including the further development of Merschel Plaza between Third and Fourth Streets near Trade Street. The park could include performance space, a public garden and park, and underground parking. The area is popular among outdoor event producers and has hosted iconic downtown events such as the Moonlight Madness 5k, and the National Black Theater Festival’s Old School Party. The Trade Street Strollway/Overpass over Third Street also could be removed. As called for in the Downtown Master Plan, Downtown would become the city’s “living room” where residents and visitors would enjoy music performances, festivals, and special events, as well as simply relaxing in a park-like setting.

Revitalizing Urban Commercial Area (RUCA) Projects

One of the objectives under the City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Economic Vitality and Diversity focuses on the promotion of commercial development in economically disadvantaged areas. This project would provide for site improvements to businesses in targeted urban commercial areas under the City’s RUCA Program. Funds would be used for improvements, grants, and low-interest loans to small business owners. Of the 18 originally identified commercial areas in need of redevelopment, only eight areas have been funded to date. This project would fund additional improvements in these areas or future phases of RUCA. Individual projects would require City Council approval.

The City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Livable Neighborhoods includes objectives to improve the character and condition of neighborhoods and expand housing assistance programs. This project would provide rehabilitation and home improvement assistance for existing homeowners; financial assistance to homebuyers for acquisition of existing or newly constructed single-family units, with or without rehabilitation; and production of single-family units for homeownership, including land acquisition, interim construction loans, on-site improvements, public infrastructure improvements, and second mortgage assistance in order to make housing more affordable. In addition, this project would provide funding for new construction and acquisition and/or rehabilitation of multi-family housing that benefits lower income households and populations with special housing needs (e.g., elderly and disabled). This project also would provide for investments in the revitalization of existing neighborhoods within the city. Revitalization efforts would include improvements in public infrastructure such as roads, sidewalks, and utilities, as well as the acquisition of properties for redevelopment.

Transforming Urban Residential Neighborhoods (TURN)

One of the strategies identified under the City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Livable Neighborhoods is the development of a program for targeted residential transformation. This project would provide additional financial assistance to rehabilitate single-family, owner-occupied or investor-owned properties. Under this program, residential properties must be located in the targeted focus areas within the NRSA (Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy Area), have an active Neighborhood Association currently listed with the City, and leverage private dollars.

One of the strategies identified under the City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Safe and Secure Community is to renovate the Public Safety Center and complete the development of the Alexander Beaty Public Safety Training and Support Center. The existing Public Safety Center, constructed in 1983, is three floors totaling approximately 60,000 square feet. Modernizing the mechanical and electrical systems at the Public Safety Center is required as soon as possible, as these major building systems are reaching a critical point in a critical facility. Bond proceeds would address the following facility needs: total HVAC replacement, electrical system and lighting upgrades, upgrades to the generator to meet current needs, replacement and upgrades to fire alarm and building security systems, and upgrades to bathrooms and plumbing.

Alexander Beaty Public Safety Training and Support Center – Phase II

In line with the City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Safe and Secure Community, this project would provide for the continued development of the Alexander Beaty Public Safety Training and Support Center, including renovating the second floor for the Forensic Services Division’s crime lab, Fire Department training, and evidence storage.

Police District Facilities

In an effort to enhance the delivery of police services, reduce administrative costs, increase police presence and interactions, and assist with economic development of areas of the city, the City Council is considering the construction of three full service police district facilities. These facilities would be located away from downtown and police headquarters and in the geographic districts that the specific facility serves. They would house the complete patrol function for that specific district and be capable of housing other police operations and units as may be deemed beneficial to overall service delivery. Sites include the Lucia Building in the Waughtown area, University Parkway/North Point Boulevard area, and Jonestown Road/Hanes Mall Boulevard area. Bond proceeds would be used for the design and construction of these facilities.

Fire Station Renovations

The strategies identified under the City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Safe and Secure Community include continued modernization and renovation of fire stations. This project would provide funding for major renovations at the following stations:

Fire Station #7 (Arbor Road)
This project would involve renovating Fire Station #7 located at 100 Arbor Road. The station houses two units, Engine 7 and Rescue 1, operated by the same company personnel. The station needs to be remodeled and renovated to update the building to meet current needs. This renovation would include expanding the sitting area and living spaces in the present building. A new garage (engine bays) would be constructed at the rear of the building along with paving for a driveway. The new configuration would allow fire personnel to enter and exit off of Country Club Road instead of Arbor Road. The new garage would accommodate larger apparatus, allowing the Fire Department to move equipment or personnel to meet staffing and equipment needs. This renovation would bring the building into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and help the Fire Department meet National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards by allowing different apparatus to operate out of the station, as needed.

Fire Station #8 (Wake Forest University)
This project would involve rebuilding Station #8 located on Reynolda Road near Wake Forest University. Presently, the substructure underneath the cement floor is deteriorating and is causing the floor to sink in the engine room. The floor has been repaired; however, this repair is not a long-term solution. Also, the current building cannot accommodate females and is not ADA accessible. The new facility would include separate bath/shower facilities for females. The new facility also would include two bays allowing the Fire Department to station apparatus as needed. If built on the current site, this project would require the construction of a two-story facility. City staff is researching alternatives including acquiring adjacent land parcels and working with Wake Forest University.

Fire Station #9 (Ogburn Avenue)
This project would involve renovating Fire Station #9, located at 4685 Ogburn Avenue, to meet present needs. The renovation would include the addition of a new engine bay on the north end of the station to allow placement of a ladder unit and to help meet NFPA requirements. The current engine bay is not large enough to handle all current apparatus, making it difficult to move equipment or personnel to meet staffing and equipment needs. The remodel also would include an expansion of the dormitory, including a bath and shower on the back of the station, to accommodate a two-company occupancy.

One of the objectives under the City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Healthy Environment focuses on the expansion of open space and recreation facilities and includes the implementation of major park master plans and parks/open space plans. This project would provide for the re-development and upgrade of Happy Hill Park as part of the overall Southeast Gateway Development Plan. The redevelopment would include renovations to or relocation of the pool and/or a water sprayground, a parking lot expansion at the Sims Neighborhood Center, relocation of the picnic shelter, new playing fields, improved landscaping, development of the property at the corner of Alder and Liberia Streets, and other improvements to the park property.

Former Quarry Property Park Development – Phase I

In line with the City Council’s strategic objective for expanded open space and recreation facilities, this project would provide for the development of the former Vulcan Quarry property. The 170-acre tract is located approximately three miles southeast of the central business district. Specific improvements to the entire property were detailed in a master plan completed in FY 2012-13. Phase I would consist of many of the improvements shown in the Quarry Village Area of the master plan, including the quarry overlook, lookout mound, amphitheater, corporate and family shelter areas, and the quarry boardwalk, as well as infrastructure improvements such as site cleaning, entrance upgrades, parking, and roadways.

Salem Lake Park Renovations/Improvements – Phase I

In line with the City Council’s strategic objective for expanded open space and recreation facilities, this project would provide for the development of the entire Salem Lake Park property, which is approximately 1,450 acres. Specific improvements and new amenities were identified as part of a master plan, which was completed in FY 2012-13. Phase I of the project would consist of updated and new playgrounds, a water sprayground facility, renovating and expanding lakefront activities (fishing, walking trails, picnic shelters, etc.), a new multifunctional marina center, a boat training pavilion, new restroom facilities, and other park furnishings as needed.

Winston Lake Park Renovations – Phase I

In line with the City Council’s strategic objective for expanded open space and recreation facilities, this project would provide for further development of Winston Lake Park. A master plan was completed for the park in FY 2012-13, showing a total renovation cost of approximately $25 million. Phase I of that master plan would include the water works splash park (a zero-depth splash pad) and aquatics center with restrooms, bathroom/shower facilities, concessions, picnic shelters, and bleachers. It also would include an outdoor, competitive pool with diving area, a water tower/slide, and a lazy river feature.

Jamison Park Development

In line with the City Council’s strategic objective for expanded open space and recreation facilities, this project would provide for the development of thirty-six acres on Meadowlark Drive acquired by the City in 1999. A master plan was completed in March 2001 and was updated in FY 2012-13. Development of the park would require site work such as clearing, grading, and the installation of erosion control measures and would include the following amenities: a picnic area, amphitheater, children’s garden, shade structures, playfields/open space, development of improved parking and access to the Muddy Creek Greenway, dog parks, exercise equipment, and walking trails, as well as a small maintenance building.

Water Spraygrounds

One of the strategies identified under the City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Healthy Environment is to explore options for water spray parks. This project would provide for the installation of water spraygrounds at existing parks in the city. Installation at each site would include the spray/play equipment, filters, pumps, surfacing, and seating. Water spraygrounds are an innovative solution to providing aquatic-style fun for people of all ages that requires no operational staffing. This project would construct eight spraygrounds in the following locations:

This project would provide for the redevelopment and upgrade of Miller Park to better serve area residents. Improvements would include, but are not limited to, installation of benches; new/replacement picnic shelters; utility improvements; correction of drainage, erosion, and flooding problems; path improvements; and bridge replacements.

Winston Lake Golf Course Renovations

This project would provide for continued improvements at Winston Lake Golf Course. The FY 2013-14 budget included funding for replacement of all nineteen greens and two pedestrian bridges at the course. Planned appropriations for FY 15-16 include funding to replace remaining cart and pedestrian bridges in need of repair. The proposed bond project would provide for several major renovations including moving the driving range back and removing the nearby road, construction of two on-course restroom facilities, construction of a large picnic shelter, replacement and reconstruction of all sand traps, repaving and replacing cart paths as needed, and other facility needs.

Sedge Garden Recreation Center Gymnasium

This project would provide for the construction of a gymnasium at Sedge Garden Recreation Center. The gymnasium would be attached to the current facility, which was designed to accommodate an expansion. This project has been requested by residents in this area of the city since 2003.

Hanes Park Improvements

This project would provide for the immediate need for an additional restroom/storage facility at Hanes Park, resurfacing of the track, and the development and implementation of a master plan for the park. Hanes Park is a highly-utilized park and is need of an additional building to provide public restroom access and on-site storage for equipment. The current restrooms at the Joe White Tennis Center are not open and available to the public when the tennis center is closed. The proposed restroom and storage building would be situated near the existing sand volleyball court.

The track was last resurfaced in 2006 and is showing significant signs of wear. The proposed project involves resurfacing the track with rubber granules and a polyurethane layer to create an impermeable, shock-absorbing top layer. This type of surface will not deteriorate due to flooding that occurs in the park. Project costs would be split with Winston-Salem Forsyth County Schools, and the City contribution would be $95,000.

The master plan for the park would be created in-house by the City’s Planning and Development Services Department with input from the Recreation and Parks Department. A master plan was created for Hanes Park in 1991, and City Staff would use that previous plan as a starting point for a new, updated master plan. City staff would solicit input from the community as part of the process and would adhere to all historic resource commission requirements.

Park Land Acquisition

One of the strategies identified under the City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Healthy Environment is to consider funding for park land and open space acquisition. This project would create a reserve fund to be used exclusively for future acquisition of land that could be developed into future park land and open space. Funding would be available for sites throughout the City.

Recreation Facilities Renovations

Another strategy under the City Council’s Strategic Focus Area for Healthy Environment is to continue to renovate and rehabilitate existing recreation facilities. The proposed bond package would provide funding for renovations to recreation facilities throughout the city. The following table shows the facilities where the City would provide the planned improvements.

The City of Winston-Salem maintains 1,013.52 centerline miles (2,180.63 lane miles) of hard surface streets and 6.62 miles of dirt streets. The benchmark for city streets is that 85% of the streets have a pavement condition rating of 85 or higher. The proposed bond funding would allow for resurfacing of approximately 203 centerline miles of hard surface streets, which would bring all City streets above a pavement rating of 85. Available resurfacing funds are applied and distributed throughout various wards to this group of streets with an overall goal of improving the commute for citizens and achieving the previous mentioned benchmark.

Sidewalk Construction and Repairs

This project would provide funding for the construction of new sidewalks and the maintenance/repair of existing sidewalks. This project also would provide for the installation of ramps to accommodate the disabled as needed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). New sidewalks are constructed based on a priority system. Ramps are installed in high priority areas and as requested by persons with disabilities. Sidewalks that are in poor condition are both a safety hazard and a mobility impediment to the disabled. If State funding is approved for a specific location, the local match amount would be 20%.

Meadowlark Drive Widening

This project would widen Meadowlark Drive from Country Club Road to the current widened segment near Robinhood Road to alleviate existing traffic congestion resulting from the additional residential development that has taken place over the last decade and the pending status of the Northern Beltway, which would divert north-south traffic.

Business 40 Corridor Improvements

This project would provide for the replacement of street lights and other aesthetic improvements along Business 40 through downtown from the US 52 interchange to Peters Creek Parkway. These improvements would be in addition to the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s scheduled improvements along the corridor.

Concrete Base Streets Rehabilitation

Multiple streets throughout the city were constructed of concrete. Often, the curb and gutter was poured with the street as one contiguous unit and is not a standard height or width. The concrete base has exceeded its life expectancy. Asphalt has been applied on top of some streets in a thin layer so that a minimal gutter will remain in place to carry stormwater. Due to the thin application of asphalt, the material has deteriorated, is breaking, and popping off in a relatively short time frame. The asphalt has to be milled prior to a new layer being placed on the roadway. Cantebury Trail, Fairfax Drive, Windsor Road, and Pine Valley Road are streets that fall into this category. Staff has consulted with a contractor about rehabilitating these streets. This project would provide a one-time fix for a minimum of 15 to 20 years.

The City of Winston-Salem’s Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program works to create safe routes for students to walk and bike to school and educates and encourages students to use active modes of transportation. Through its work with schools throughout the city, the SRTS program has identified key infrastructure improvements to facilitate more walking and biking among students. Selected projects would include some of the following elements: pedestrian signals, sidewalks, crosswalks, curb ramps, and safety signs.

This project would provide for improvements along Polo Road from University Parkway to Indiana Avenue. Improvements would include the construction of new sidewalks and a linear park.

STP-DA Bicycle and Pedestrian Projects (City’s Match)

Through the federal Surface Transportation Program-Direct Attributable (STP-DA) program, the city has access to federal transportation money for bike and pedestrian projects. This would provide the required 20 percent local match to fund eight projects.

This project would provide for future greenway development, including construction of the Waughtown Connector Greenway. Bond proceeds would enable the City to expedite construction by completely funding special design work with local dollars, thus not requiring the extensive review by the State if the projects are funded from State grants. Staff would coordinate with the Transportation Advisory Committee (TAC) and Bicycle and Greenway Planning Sub-Committee to make recommendations and identify state and federal matching funds.

The Waughtown Connector Greenway would connect the Waughtown Street area and surrounding neighborhoods to the Peachtree Greenway, Reynolds Park, and the William R. Anderson Jr. Recreation Center. The Peachtree Greenway connects to the Salem Creek Greenway providing access to Winston-Salem State University, Salem College, the Gateway YWCA, Downtown via the Strollway, Peters Creek Parkway, and the Salem Lake Trail. The greenway also would allow for access around the quarry, providing the public with the opportunity for scenic views.

Old Salem Infrastructure

Most of the sidewalks within the Old Salem area are constructed of brick or rock. Many of the sidewalks have been displaced due to large trees within the area and have exceeded their life expectancy. This project would evaluate the removal of trees as recommended by a certified arborist and would replace existing sidewalks with a like material to meet current pedestrian needs and the American with Disabilities Act (ADA), along with planting trees within recommended locations. Once the project is completed, maintenance cost and needs would be significantly reduced.

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